The history of the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia began in 1993. Initially it was, and remains to this day, a private non-governmental organization - its organizers emphasize this, asserting that the museum is politically and financially independent. It exists solely on funds from sponsors and patrons.
The creation of the museum was initiated by the famous historian, University of Wisconsin professor Paulis Lazda, who was supported by many other Latvian scholars, as well as private individuals.
The purpose of the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is, first and foremost, to depict the lives of Latvians who suffered from Nazi terror during the Great Patriotic War, as well as from the Soviet regime in 1945-1991.
The museum is loosely divided into several sections, each of which shows particular milestones in Latvia's history. Here you can ознакомиться with information about the struggle of the Latvian people for independence right up to its achievement in 1991. The museum has assembled a large number of documents and photographs on this topic.
From the very moment of its opening, the museum has evoked mixed reactions among the Russian public. In particular, many questions are raised by the equating of Stalin with Hitler and Soviet power with the German occupation.
